Claire's Secures Partial Rescue Deal in the UK
Fashion accessory chain Claire’s has secured the future of 156 of its UK and Irish stores, thanks to a deal with private equity firm Modella Capital. The agreement, confirmed by administrators at Interpath, will save around 1,000 jobs and ensure the brand’s continued presence on British high streets. However, 145 other stores have not been included in the sale, and their fate, along with the jobs of those employed there, remains uncertain.
Interpath have confirmed that the remaining Claire’s stores not included in the sale will continue trading while they explore further options. "Our intention is to continue to trade the remaining portfolio of stores for as long as we can, while we explore the options available," said Will Wright, chief executive at Interpath.
Claire’s, famous for its ear-piercing services and colorful accessories, filed for administration in August 2025 after struggling with a combination of declining sales and fierce competition from online retailers. In recent years, the brand has faced mounting pressure from digital-first competitors like Shein, Temu, Amazon, and TikTok Shop, which have been able to quickly respond to trends at lower prices.
Modella Capital, which has previously acquired WH Smith’s high street stores and the Hobbycraft chain, expressed confidence in the brand’s potential. “We strongly believe this much-loved brand deserves the chance to remain on the High Street in the UK and Ireland,” said Joe Price, managing director of Modella Capital.
In addition to the UK stores, Claire’s also filed for bankruptcy in the US earlier this year, listing assets and liabilities in the $1 billion to $10 billion range.
